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Spotted animal can briefly turn docile after scratching flanks (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

calico

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'spotted' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

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(Other definitions for calico that I've seen before include "Unbleached sixteen down cloth" , "Type of cotton cloth" , "White cotton fabric" , "Given material for dress" , "Coarse cloth with a bright print" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times and The Sunday Times.
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